Improving your credit score doesn’t always require big moves or major lifestyle changes. Sometimes, it’s the small, steady habits that build the strongest financial future. Just like brushing your teeth helps avoid big dental problems, a few smart routines can keep financial health in good shape and help you avoid trouble later. Try adding these check-ins to your calendar, and see how these small routines can amount to a big pay-off.
Every Monday: Review Your Balances
Pick one day a week (we like Monday) to check your credit card balances, loan payments and due dates. In less than 10 minutes, you’ll know exactly where you stand, and where to focus your energy.
Why It helps:
- Catches mistakes or missed payments early.
- Avoids overuse of your available credit, which can hurt your score over time.
- Keeps you accountable for how much you spend.
Sync up this routine with a quiet moment: grab a coffee, open your mobile banking app and take stock.
Every Wednesday: Pay Down a Little Extra
Midweek is a great time to make a small extra payment on a credit card or loan, even if it’s just $20. These payments go straight to your principal, which helps shrink your debt faster and reduce interest. Many lenders allow you to make multiple payments a month without penalties, so if you’re feeling aggressive, don’t confine yourself to only Wednesday!
Before Payday: Set or Check Auto-Pay
Before your next payday, make a habit of double-checking that your auto-payments are scheduled and correct. Auto-pay is one of the easiest ways to avoid missed payments, which can hurt your credit score fast.
You can also set up reminders if you don’t want money pulled automatically — or just mark your calendar!
Every Month: Do a Credit Check-In
Your credit utilization — or, how much of your available credit you’re using — is an overall indicator of your financial health. Credit rating agencies want to see utilization below 30%, and will improve your overall credit score if you consistently pay your balance and keep your credit utilization low. If it’s getting close, consider shifting your spending to cash or debit for the rest of the month.
Want to go further? Use a budgeting app to monitor this weekly so you’re not surprised when the statement comes.
In the Long-Term: Use Only One Card at a Time
Instead of using three or four credit cards, focus on one main card for everyday purchases. This makes tracking your balance easier and helps keep your utilization low on the others.
Top tip: Rotate cards each quarter to keep them active without letting them rack up big balances.
Healthy Financial Habits Not Enough? We’ve Got You.
If you’re still juggling too many bills and your balances are growing, Accredited Debt Relief’s debt consolidation program can help. With it, you can combine eligible high-interest debts into one affordable monthly payment.
Debt Consolidation Benefits
- Save 40% or more on eligible monthly payments
- Get debt-free in as little as 24 – 48 months
- Reduce stress and gain more flexibility
Want to see how much you could save today?